Dampness readings in property

PastaLover123

We are in the process of buying a property and the survey has returned some dampness readings as high as 38% in a couple areas! They have mentioned there is no visual signs of dampness so they recommend monitoring the situation only. The rest of the survey was very positive with only minor work required, which we wouldn't have to pay for. It is a property from the early 1900s.

Considering readings above 20% are considered damp, we're thinking of arranging a specialist damp surveyor. Due to personal reasons we have a bit of pressure to move in as quickly as possible but I don't want to make a poor investment decision because we've rushed in.

Does anyone have any insight into how concerning these readings actually are?

Albermarle

we're thinking of arranging a specialist damp surveyor.

Who will almost certainly recommend a lot of expensive unnecessary work .

Some mild damp in a 1900's house is very common and you can look into the cause of it when you move in. In any case often these damp monitors give false readings.

If the rest of the survey was positive, then I would just get on with the purchase.

PastaLover123

That's a view I'm also leaning towards… because all specialist damp surveyors also seem to be in the business of selling the remedies for damp

Albermarle

At the top of the forum, there is a search box. Just search for 'Damp' and you will see it is a regular topic.

Myci85

Have you looked at period house forums on this topic? I would definitely recommend doing so, as old houses don't work like modern houses, and sometimes damp is caused because people have been treating them like modern houses, or sometimes the tools used to test for damp are completely inappropriate for the job so the readings are meaningless.

Eilidh1970

If you are going for a damp survey, it might be worth asking the estate agent if there is anyone local they would suggest. Our buyers wanted to have a damp survey done and there was someone who does a lot of inspections in the area, and both we and our buyers thought he gave an even-handed summary of what could/should be done and which things were nothing to worry about. He was aware that he probably wasn't going to get any work out of it and that it was more about the price negotiations.

theartfullodger

Hopefully this will put off other bidders.

After you buy ensure there is ventilation (eg trickle vents open) and low heating. Wait 2 weeks then re-measure, very likely significant reductions.

PastaLover123

Thank you all for the advice! I really appreciate it.